Nutrigenomics and Integrative Medicine: Shaping the Future of Cancer Management

Abstract

Studies have shown that the treatment incidence of onset cancers significantly rose worldwide after the 90s decade. Multidisciplinary cancer care teams are challenged to keep a survivor’s group’s physical and psychological well-being that presents a long-life perspective. In this way, there is a rise in the search for integrative medicine as complementary or alternative cancer treatments. Although the general information around these subjects is plentiful and diverse, scientific literature still explores the evidence for establishing the possible benefits of nutraceuticals’ bioactive molecules as cancer alternative interventions. Usually, complementary therapy is used to relieve the treatment’s side effects in cancer patients. In addition to conventional treatment, mind-body interventions support patients’ spiritual, emotional, and mental health. Over the last few years, there have been a growing number of studies with significant results on natural products that protect against oral mucositis progression. This narrative review surveys what is known about global patient healthcare as an integrative part of oncologic therapy. The goal is to elucidate the importance of supporting patients and families through complementary therapy with conventional cancer treatments. As a result, these strategies are to soften the impact of the side effects, improve well-being and strengthen the psychological outlook. Ultimately, clinicians and patients must work together to select the best treatment options based on each case’s benefits.